Face your fear: 4 ways that going on holiday could cure your phobia

Whether it is swimming with sharks, a fear of heights or simply travelling alone, one way to quash your fears is to tackle them head on. What better way than when on holiday? Holidays are times when we can relax, indulge, and lose our inhibitions; providing the perfect platform for facing any fears you may harbour.

Ease yourself into our four top tips for using your holiday to cure your phobias forever:

Adventure holidays are the best option for challenging any apprehension you may have towards uncomfortable experiences. You can rest assured that all activities are organised by highly-trained individuals who have ample experience, and will make you feel at ease. Activities can be tailored to your needs and will provide a support network giving you plenty of encouragement along the way.

You can choose your activities before even getting on the plane, and most agencies provide transportation and accommodation within the package cost, meaning you can forget about any travelling troubles and focus on the stress-free aspects of your trip!

Make the most of your experience: By removing yourself from all things familiar on home soil, you open your mind to a whole array of experiences and cultures. You wouldn't want to return home with regrets after letting your fears stop you from indulging in that bungee jump, Amazon trek or sky dive, would you? It is important that you feel comfortable, so notify any instructors of your apprehension. They will have had ample experience with nervous participants and can help you get rid of any fears you may have.

Build up to the main event: Jumping in feet first doesn't work for everyone. Small achievements will build your confidence and make even the largest of hurdles appear that bit more achievable. For example, if it is heights that drain the blood from your face, test the water before you begin scaling any mountains; try walking to a city observation point or climbing to the viewing point of a tall building. The view should distract you from the height and will offer a visual reward for your efforts. Remember to walk before you run and that any goal met, no matter how small, is still an achievement and a step closer to conquering your fear!

Bring friends for support: Conquering your fear can seem intimidating, but going it alone can make it appear even more of a challenge. Some people prefer to face their fears surrounded by strangers where the risk of embarrassment is lower, but for others familiar faces make it easier. Be sure to choose friends who will support you regardless of the outcome, and who will give you practical and encouraging advice as you take on your quest. Not only can they reassure you, but also share in the celebrations when you finally quash your fears!

Record your experience: Overcoming a fear is a life-changing experience and one that can shape character and offer new opportunities. Such an occasion deserves to be recorded be it by journal, camcorder or camera; whichever you choose, you will want to remember! By doing so, you not only provide evidence for family and friends on your return, but are also left with a memento to help you remember the feelings and the experience as a whole. You never know; your stories could help you conquer other fears you may have by finding a solution you're comfortable with, and they may even inspire others!

So, next time you consider taking a city break, relaxing on a cruise or indulging in exotic safari holidays, remember that adventure holidays have their perks too. Planning is key, though; be sure to have everything booked and researched to make you feel more relaxed and confident about facing your fears. Do as much as you feel is possible and even if you don't reach your goal, the fact that you tried is still a huge achievement in itself and shows you that it is possible when the time is right.

2 August 2011

This is a sponsored posting.